Things to Do in the DMV This Month

May 5, 2026 | Lifestyle

With a bright new season officially in full swing, the Capital Region is replete with budding springtime fun around every corner. Whether you’re on the hunt for showstopping theater, live music, family-driven activities, cultural diversions, or seasonal celebrations, here’s a roundup of the top events happening this May across DC, Maryland, and Virginia!

Want more of DC’s best? Check out the Lifestyle Section of our blog to discover everything at your fingertips, from the coolest places in DC to grab a cocktail to the latest after-school programs for kids.

DC

The Motion | May 6 – June 14 | Arena Stage, Southwest DC
Four scholars explore humanity in a bold new production at one of DC’s most respected theaters.

History Tours of Union Station | Starting May 7 | Union Station
Experience the architecture and hidden stories behind one of the city’s grandest transit hubs on these guided walks.

Wolf Eyes Live | May 8 | Rhizome, Takoma DC
Experimental legends bring their avant‑garde sound to this beloved neighborhood art venue.

EU Open House | May 9 | Various Embassies in DC
Spend the day discovering European culture through open embassies overflowing with art, music, and food.

Spring Night Market | May 14 | Union Market
Taste Asian street food, see lion and dragon dancers, and enjoy a lively evening under the stars.

Stretching the Canvas: Ten Decades of Native Painting | Opens May 15 | Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
See more than fifty Native works that capture a century of creativity and cultural change.

Fiesta Asia Street Fair | May 16 | Pennsylvania Avenue, Downtown DC
Celebrate Pan‑Asian heritage with entertainment, vendors, and delicious international cuisine.

Go‑Go Moshpit | May 21 | H Street Corridor
Catch local acts The Honest Politix and DC’s Hue blending go‑go and punk for one eclectic night.

Jazz in the Garden | Fridays, May 22 – Aug 14 | National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
This summer tradition officially returns with free outdoor jazz surrounded by art and greenery.

Block Fest | May 23 | Mount Pleasant
Join neighborhood locals for a day of music, dance, and community featuring live cumbia and food vendors.

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band | May 27 | Nationals Park
The Boss brings his classic energy and legendary catalog to DC for one epic stadium show.

Chef José Andrés: Spain My Way | May 28 | Lincoln Theatre, U Street Corridor
At this exclusive launch event, DC’s favorite chef shares recipes and stories from his new cookbook live on stage.

Capital Rare Book Fair | May 29 – 31 | Downtown DC
Discover antique manuscripts, rare maps, and collectible volumes at this literary showcase.

The We Make History Exhibit | Opens May 30 | Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum
Unpack powerful community stories honoring 250 years of American life.

Project Glow Festival | May 30 – 31 | RFK Festival Grounds
Dance all weekend at DC’s largest electronic music festival featuring more than fifty DJs.

➤ Discover even more DC gems with these posts next:

VIRGINIA

National Landing Bike Month Ride | May 7 | Arlington
Celebrate Bike Month with a social ride through the streets of National Landing.

Pippin | May 12 – July 26 | Signature Theatre, Arlington
A vibrant, reimagined take on the Broadway favorite about adventure and self‑discovery.

Sting Live in Concert | May 21 – 23 | Wolf Trap, Vienna
Don’t miss the rock legend performing timeless hits for three unforgettable nights under the stars.

Vanessa Carlton | May 8 | The Birchmere, Alexandria
Singer‑songwriter Vanessa Carlton brings her Veils Tour to Alexandria for an intimate evening of piano‑driven pop favorites, including “A Thousand Miles.”

Carlos Vives | May 9 | EagleBank Arena, Fairfax
Dance along as Colombian superstar Carlos Vives delivers a high‑energy night of Latin pop and contagious rhythm.

Mount Vernon Spring Wine Festival | May 15 – 17 | George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Sip regional wines, listen to live music, and walk the historic grounds of Mount Vernon as the sun sets over the Potomac.

Tephra ICA Arts Festival | May 16 – 17 | Reston Town Center, Reston
Discover more than 200 contemporary artists presenting painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed‑media work in this large outdoor festival.

Asian Festival on Main | May 17 | Main Street, Fairfax
See Downtown Fairfax come alive with music, dance, food, and crafts celebrating traditions from across Asia.

Viva! Vienna! | May 23 – 25 | Downtown Vienna
A Memorial Day weekend tradition featuring carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and community performances.

Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony | May 25 | Arlington National Cemetery
Honor America’s fallen service members during a moving observance featuring a wreath‑laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and tributes to those who have served.

➤ Looking for more great spots to sample the DC scene? Start with these posts next:

MARYLAND

Bethesda Fine Arts Festival | May 9 – 10 | Bethesda
Stroll through over 100 booths showcasing fine art, sculpture, and handmade pieces by regional makers.

Fine Day Fair | May 9 – 10 | Chevy Chase
Shop new and vintage heirlooms at this elegant open‑air market celebrating craftsmanship.

Preakness 151 | May 15 & 16, 2026 | Laurel Park
The 151st running of the Preakness Stakes takes place at Laurel Park, kicking off two days of racing and celebration that highlight Maryland’s storied horse racing tradition.

Del Fest | May 21 – 24 | Cumberland
Experience bluegrass greats like Alison Krauss while surrounded by mountains, music, and community.

Annapolis Irish Festival | May 29 – 30 | Crownsville
Two days of Irish food, dancing, and live music bring the spirit of Ireland to the Maryland capital like never before.

Curious about more than just local events and happenings? For all your DMV real estate needs, we’re here to help! Get in touch with us by filling out the form on this page, calling us at 202.280.2060, or emailing connect@jennsmira.com.